BY MFANUFIKILE KHATHWANE
MBABANE– The Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS) has called on parents and guardians to protect children and seek help when faced with domestic challenges following the tragic deaths of two siblings and their father in the Lomahasha area.
The message was delivered by the National Commissioner of Police, Vusi Manoma Masango, during a media briefing held on June 2, 2026, after Lomahasha Police opened two murder cases following the deaths of an 11-year-old boy and his eight-year-old sister.
The children were discovered lying dead under a tree in the veld at Matfuntini, Enjungwini, on June 1 at about 3pm. Small ropes were found around their necks. Their 44-year-old father, who is believed to have been responsible for their deaths, was found hanging from a nearby tree.
According to information available to police, the incident is believed to have stemmed from a domestic violence situation.
It is alleged that the father had a history of abusing both the children’s mother and the children. In an effort to protect them, the mother reportedly took the children to stay with relatives. However, the suspect allegedly tracked them down and forcefully took them to the Vuvulane area, where they remained for several days and missed school.
Family members are said to have engaged the man extensively over the phone and eventually convinced him to return to Matfuntini with the children.
Police said that on the morning of June 1, family members discovered that the father and the two children were missing. Later that afternoon, a neighbour noticed what appeared to be a person standing motionless under a tree in the veld. Upon closer inspection, it was discovered that the man was hanging from the tree, while the two children were found dead a few metres away.
Addressing the nation, Masango described children as a precious gift from God and strongly condemned violence against them.
“If you are not ready to have children, the best option is not to have them. Children deserve love, care and protection,” he said.
The National Commissioner urged members of the public facing emotional, family or relationship challenges to seek assistance through counselling services offered by pastors, counsellors, the Royal Eswatini Police Service and community structures such as elders.
He also conveyed condolences to the bereaved family, relatives and the nation at large following the heartbreaking incident.
The National Commissioner further reminded the public of His Majesty King Mswati III’s firm stance against Gender-Based Violence (GBV). During the State Opening of the Third Session of the 12th Parliament, His Majesty condemned domestic abuse and expressed concern over men who turn against their own families.
The King urged emaSwati to take responsibility and report early signs of abuse to law enforcement authorities before situations escalate into tragedy.
Police investigations into the matter are continuing.
#EndChildAbuse #ChildSafety #GenderBasedViolence #NaweUliPhoyisa
(Courtesy Pic)
